The Biden administration has informed Congress of an $8 billion arms sale to Israel, according to US media reports, amid ongoing criticism of Israel’s devastating war on Gaza. The planned deal, confirmed by the US Department of State on Friday, includes a range of weapons such as 500-pound (226kg) warheads, precision-guided munitions, artillery shells, missiles for jets and helicopters, bomb fuses, and air-to-air missiles designed to intercept projectiles.
Some of the munitions are expected to be sourced from existing US stockpiles, while most will be delivered over time. This deal follows a previous $20 billion arms package approved in August, which included jets, military vehicles, bombs, and missiles.
In 2023, President Biden briefly halted a shipment of 2,000-pound (907kg) bombs following mounting international concerns over civilian casualties in Gaza. However, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu criticized the pause. Since then, Biden has reiterated his strong support for Israel’s “self-defense,” even as pressure mounts from rights groups and lawmakers over the rising toll on Palestinian civilians.
Congress Approval Likely
According to Al Jazeera’s Washington correspondent Alan Fisher, the arms sale is expected to be approved easily. New House Speaker Mike Johnson has already expressed his commitment to supporting Israel. “Blocking the deal would require a two-thirds majority in both chambers of Congress, which is unlikely,” Fisher explained.
Despite the expected congressional approval, several Democratic lawmakers have voiced concerns about continued US arms supplies to Israel, particularly given the worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Critics argue that supplying weapons without ensuring Israeli accountability undermines efforts to protect civilians and prevent war crimes.
Concerns Over Humanitarian Crisis and War Crimes
International rights organizations have accused Israel of committing “acts of genocide” and targeting Gaza’s healthcare infrastructure. In response to growing alarm over civilian casualties, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) has ordered Israel to take preventive measures to avoid genocide in Palestinian territories.
Furthermore, a UN commission of inquiry has stated that Israel appears to be systematically destroying Gaza’s healthcare system. According to the UN, nearly 90 percent of Gaza’s population has been displaced due to relentless bombings and blockades. Medical facilities, already overwhelmed by the humanitarian crisis, are facing shortages of essential supplies, with Israel accused of obstructing aid deliveries.
Restrictions on Refugee Sponsorships
Meanwhile, the US government continues to face criticism over its unwavering support for Israel, despite global calls for a ceasefire and humanitarian aid. In addition to arms deals, Washington has enforced stricter rules on refugee sponsorships and travel for people from conflict regions, further complicating efforts to aid displaced Palestinians.
Despite the backlash, Biden has maintained that US support for Israel remains crucial. However, growing international outrage and calls for justice may pressure the administration to reassess its policies in the near future.
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